1984 Mazda Miata problems

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The Mazda MX-5 is a lightweight two-person sports car manufactured and marketed by Mazda with a front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. The convertible is marketed as the Mazda Roadster (マツダ・ロードスター, Matsuda Rōdosutā) or Eunos Roadster (ユーノス・ロードスター, Yūnosu Rōdosutā) in Japan, and as the Mazda Miata (/miˈɑːtə/) in the United States, and formerly in Canada, where it is now marketed as the MX-5 but is still commonly referred to as Miata.

Manufactured at Mazda's Hiroshima plant, the MX-5 debuted in 1989 at the Chicago Auto Show and was conceived and executed under a tightly focused design credo, Jinba ittai (人馬一体), meaning "oneness of horse and rider". Widely noted for its small, light, technologically modern, dynamically balanced and minimally complex design, the MX-5 has frequently been called a spiritual successor to 1950s and '60s Italian and British roadster sports cars. The Lotus Elan was used as a design benchmark.

Generations were internally designated with a two-letter code, beginning with the first generation, the NA. The second generation (NB) launched in 1998 for MY 1999; followed by the third generation (NC) in 2005 for MY 2006, and the fourth generation (ND) in 2015 for MY 2016.

As the best-selling two-seat convertible sports car in history, the MX-5 has been marketed globally, with production exceeding one million, as of early 2016. The name miata derives from Old High German for "reward".

1984 Mazda Miata

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Common 1984 Mazda Miata problems

The Mazda Miata, also known as the MX-5, is a popular roadster sports car known for its reliability and performance. However, like any vehicle, it is not immune to certain problems. Here are some of the most common issues reported by owners of the Mazda Miata, based on model years 1984, 1985, and 1986:

  • AC Compressor Failure: Some units of the 2012 Mazda Miata have reported issues with the A/C compressor, which can fail prematurely due to exposure to the elements. This can result in the air conditioning system not working at all, requiring replacement of the compressor.
  • Convertible Top Problems: Owners of the 2008 Mazda Miata have reported issues with the convertible top, which can fall apart or crack due to over-stressing from the frame. This can happen even if the top is rarely or never used, and can be costly to repair as most complaints occur outside of the warranty period.
  • Fuel Filler Pipe Issues: The 2007 Mazda Miata has reported issues with the fuel filler pipe, which can have improperly manufactured threads causing the fuel filler cap to loosen and the check engine light to turn on. This issue can be resolved by replacing the fuel filler pipe, and Mazda has issued a recall for some model years to address this problem.
  • Seatbelt Problems: Over time, the seatbelts in the Mazda Miata can become harder to pull out and retract due to dirt buildup. This can be resolved by removing the seatbelts from the vehicle, cleaning them with hot, soapy water and a brush, and allowing them to dry fully before reinstalling them.
  • Fuel System Problems: Some owners of the Mazda Miata have reported issues with the fuel system, which can become extremely slow to fill due to faults in the tank or fuel filler pipe. This can be resolved by replacing the fuel tank, fuel filler pipe, and breather pipe.
  • Shock Absorber Problems: The Mazda Miata is known for its handling, but this can be compromised if the shock absorbers lose their oil. Replacement is the key to resolving this issue.
  • Ignition Switch Problems: The ignition switches in the NA Miatas can be funky, causing a click and nothing happening when the key is turned or requiring multiple turns to start the car. This can be resolved by replacing the ignition switch, which is fairly easy and cheap to do.
  • Heater Core Hoses: The heater core hoses in the Miata can fail due to being located next to the exhaust manifold and getting hot. If the cast O-ring is leaking, it can cause the hoses to fail. It is recommended to replace these hoses if they look bad or old .
  • Heater Core Leaks: Some earlier model Miatas, including the NA models, can have heater core leaks, which can cause coolant to leak into the interior and soak the carpet. This can be a major issue if not addressed promptly .
  • Power Plant Frame (PPF): The PPF, a long metal brace that ties the Miata’s engine and transmission assembly to its differential, is a unique feature of the Miata that allows quick on-off throttle action at 6000 rpm in second gear. However, if not properly aligned, it can cause excessive drivetrain or transmission noise.

It is important to note that while these issues are common, they do not affect all units of the Mazda Miata. Regular maintenance and inspection can help prevent or address these problems before they become major issues.

1984 Mazda Miata engine

What is the common problem with Miata?

Common problems found in the Mazda Miata include A/C compressor failure, convertible top problems, and fuel filler piper issues.

What year is the best Miata engine?

Ideally, you'll want one of the 1994-1997 models, which got the more powerful and more easily modified 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. But the 1.6 will still be fun, and it can be easily replaced with the later 1.8. Also, the Miata is a great starting point if you're looking to modify a car.

How many miles do old Miatas last?

A typical Mazda Miata will provide a solid 200,000 miles on the road, which is a high number for a sports car. It's vital to remember that repairs for this convertible can be a little pricier, so ensure you double-check with a test drive that any used Miata is in decent condition before buying.

Why are old Miatas so popular?

The Mazda MX5 Miata remains popular because it is small, cheap, reliable, and fun to drive, but it may not remain the same due to stricter emissions regulations. Despite its limitations in stock form, the MX5 delivers a unique open-top, sporty feeling and can easily be improved with aftermarket upgrades.

1984 Mazda Miata complaints

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1984 Mazda Miata problems:

I'm thinking of buying a Mazda. What are some common problems I ...
I'm thinking of buying a Mazda. What are some common problems I ...
https://www.quora.com/Im-thinking-of-buying-a-Mazda-What-are-some-common-problems-I-should-expect

Apr 8, 2018 ... What are common Mazda MX-5 Miata issues and problems? ... 1984, and past its schedule) fortunately ... I don't know anything unique to being a ...

Mazda MX-5 Miata Common Problems (1990-2005) - Haynes Manuals
Mazda MX-5 Miata Common Problems (1990-2005) - Haynes Manuals
https://haynes.com/en-us/tips-tutorials/mazda-mx-5-miata-common-problems-1990-2005

Does the Mazda MX-5 Miata have fuel pump problems? ... You've got your foot down. The revs are siling towards the redline, you're just about to hook another gear ...

Mazda Miata Reliability and Common Problems - In The Garage ...
Mazda Miata Reliability and Common Problems - In The Garage ...
https://www.carparts.com/blog/mazda-miata-reliability-and-common-problems/

Aug 25, 2023 ... Are Mazda Miatas Reliable? The Mazda Miata enjoys above-average reliability, with some of its model years scoring better than others. RepairPal ...

Common problems that come with owning a rotary? - RX7Club.com ...
Common problems that come with owning a rotary? - RX7Club.com ...
https://www.rx7club.com/new-member-rx-7-technical-256/common-problems-come-owning-rotary-986744/

Feb 7, 2012 ... I really want a RX7 as my first car (84 or 85 GSL if I can get my way) so I'd like to know what are so common problems that occur with rotary ...

Problems? : r/w123
Problems? : r/w123
https://www.reddit.com/r/w123/comments/q4cebw/problems/

Oct 9, 2021 ... I am thinking about buying a 300d-240d soonish and was wondering if there are any common problems on these cars, and if so how easy are they ...

Other years of Mazda Miata

mazda miata 1990 photo
Miata 1990
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Miata 1991
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mazda miata 1992 photo
Miata 1992
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Miata 1993
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Miata 1994
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Miata 1995
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1984 Mazda Miata photo